In order to be genetically tested for BRCA1 and 2 do you need a surviving relative with bc?
My mother and her mother (neither had any sisters) both died of bc, but this was over 30 years ago so neither were genetically tested. Is it still possible for me to be tested?
I’m completely paranoid about bc, i’m 2 years younger (38) than my Mum was when she died and it’s all I think about. I’m constantly finding abnormalities, had a mammogram at Christmas which was negative but I keep convincing myself that it’s a false negative (hubby and doctors both say they can’t feel anything!), I can’t sleep and am now having daily panic attacks. I just want this to end and the only way I can see this happening is by having both breasts removed.
Sorry to have rambled on when this was supposed to be a short question!
Sorry I can’t give a 100% answer to your question but I think you do need a surviving relative to be able to take these tests. I hope that you are able to find some peace of mind soon as you seem to be very worried - which is understandable.
Yes you do need a surviving relative to be tested if you haven’t had bc yourself. Discuss your concerns with your GP and see if you can have regular screening.
Hi,
i was under the family history clinic for 5 years prior to the diagnosis of bc in jan07. They did not test me as I did not have any living relative. I f I would have been tested I would have gone for prophylactic surgery I think! However there is a way around now. If you are very worried, get it done privately as they will test you for the known mutations such as braca1 and braca2. I would have selected this option if it was available to me.I think this company is based in London.Worth checking!
Welcome to the forums, here is the link to a factsheet published by Breast Cancer Care which may help you to understand more about familial breast cancer, you can read it online or download and print a copy:
It sounds like you have a lot of issues to work through, please feel free to call our team of specialist nurses on the helpline for support and advice on 0808 800 6000, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and Sat 9am-2pm.
I have had the genetic test done without surviving relative with BC. I live in the US but I know that nothing would have stopped me from getting this test. Here you can pay for it out of pocket if insurance doesn’t cover. My insurance coverd the cost.